Political debates off the books

Prime minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, has made it clear that there will be no debates between the leaders of the island’s two major political parties in the run up to the general election.

Speaking on the radio program ‘Focus on government and development’ on Thursday night, the prime minister insisted that he will not share a stage with leader of the United Workers Party, Lennox Linton, who has been challenging Skerrit to debate issues of national importance.

Just last week when a plagiarism issue against Linton surfaced, the UWP leader again challenged Skerrit to a debate.

But the prime minister has essentially dumped the idea saying he is not prepared to go face to face with Linton since Linton “has not read a serious book about Dominica.”

Linton has been challenging Skerrit to debate matters of national importance

“He has not taken time to read the IMF reports or the World Bank reports, the ECCB reports,” Skerrit said. “He has not engaged in himself in any serious, honest discussion. I don’t see myself engaging in discussion with Lennox Linton about Dominica…”

The prime minister said Linton has not demonstrated “any ability to articulate his own words..”

He pointed out that the recent revelations of plagiarism shows that Linton is not capable of penning his own speeches and “he is a lazy fellah.”

“I don’t think I would sit down and debate Lennox Linton on any issue, these are not his ideas,” Skerrit said.

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238 Comments

Anonymous

September 22, 2014

he is a coward. If Skerrit become the opposition leader he has to debate in the parliament. he will have to face the man who has never read a book on Dominica. I believe when Skerritt lose the elections he will defect for Dominica, the man is a coward.

Is this guy for real! We wake up 4:00am everymorning go to work at 6:00am to 6:00pm to pay mister 15% Vat, property tax, social security tax, and mister watching us in our face and saying no debates, how can Dominicans take this mediocre leadership people should throw eggs at mister. You WORK FOR US, NOT US WORKING FOR YOU!

My Dear, it is very important in the lives of the citizens of a country that we here together from both leaders what they can and will do for us. It is very educational for us all. we all have our favours but we should be honest in our words. Debate is VITAL!!!

I am just one of the people who believes that being a good debater does not make you a good leader. However, being a good negotiator does. Skeritt has shown, beyond the shadow of a doubt, his ability to run this country. according to every American poll, Obama has showed inferior leadership skills but was pretty good in debates.

What proof makes him an excellent negotiator. China’s assistance to Dominica and other third world countries was to expand its economy. Millions have been invested in other Caribbean islands as well as African countries too. We they skilled negotiators? Secondly Venezuela; the goal of this partnership was to make the Caribbean, Central and South America 1. Like Nato etc. They have been literally trying to buy the rest of the Caribbean. Was the rest of the Caribbean excellent negotiators as well?

Skerrit your excuses are pathetic. Your spiritual advisor says you are the wisest PM DA has ever had, you are more qualified than Lennox, you have degree he does not have, you have been a sitting PM for 14 years and has seen and read all IMF, World Bank, ECCB and UN Reports so why not have the debate and prove to us how incompetent Lennox is to lead a party much more a Nation!!!!!!!

NO DEBATE clearly shows that you guys aren’t ready to lead the country or not prepared to lead. A debate will show who is most suitable, and will allow for us to see who is independent and who needs someone to tell them what to say

Ok! here’s a deal Roosevelt. If you are scared as your childish comments sugest we are going to have a referendum next week after which you will choose the moderators. Take the romantic talk show couple, take Semeon and L lawrence; if you want you can even ask the senior clung. Let them ask you all the infant questions and let them ask Lennox all the though questions he will still embarrass you coward because all Dominicans know your weaknesses. You cannot speak, you cannot think for yourself and you need somebody to guide you in your decision making.

No debate the PM of our country cannot answer questions about the issues plaguing the country. and he wouldn’t dare go against Lenox Linton. Who in my opinion would embarrass the PM in such conditions. Attitude reflect leadership Mr PM. What are you reflecting?

You know I suspect the thumbs up and thumbs down button only work for one set of people. And DNO you can put my comment for moda-ration until the day pig flies, I doh care.Is you DNO I want to read this comment

If the feedback associated with this article is what passes as political discourse in Dominica, one can easily understand how a person can be elected to the highest political office in the land without debating his ideas ,goals, views and aspirations before the electorate. The genius of Skerrit is that he has a firm understanding of the way of his subjects think. He knows that the masses are politically immature and unable to see the big picture.

Hey Editor what kinna Journalism all you doing dere nuh man after-all man when Skerro say someting like “He (Linton) has not taken time to read the IMF reports or the World Bank reports, the ECCB reports,” Skerrit said. “He has not engaged in himself in any serious, honest discussion. I don’t see myself engaging in discussion with Lennox Linton about Dominica…” good journalism is advocating the pursuit of information for the masses so there can be a constructive discussion,,,

Why there was no followup questioning to Skerro nuh,,,

In day-to-day activities we always asking one word question that all man know how to ask,,,

All you oy look excuses – I am trying to keep up with the many excuses given by these “kapor”

They said we Dominicans are not ready for debates – that came fro the likes of Arthley Aaron , Karmala , Parry Bellot etc. We not ready for debate but fully dumb for mepuis and hand outs. Then they said that everyday they are debating with projects so no need to debate – Stated by Blackmore. One Laborite even told me that if there is a debate the organizers will cheat for Lennox linton – Whoever said the Labor Party support base is truly ignorant.

Now Skerrit is claiming that Lennox Linton hasn’t read a book on the IMF lol

They then decide to send the same man who said that we Dominicans are not ready for debate to debate Joshua Francis at the state College and all he wanted to talk about was Geothermal and Queen show. That was a disaster. If you think ah lie go to you Tube pour gardais L’mere

Someone told me that the next excuse is that the chief speech thief may have tonsillitis.

This is not a matter of being Blue or Red, DLP or UPW. This is an opportunity for all Dominicans at home and abroad to really see what the opposition leader and the current Prime Minister are really made of.

Now to deny the people you the PM have ruled for the past 15 years such an opportunity is nothing short of disrespect . Dominicans have been denied the chance to witness not just history in the making but also they have been robbed of making an informed decision come election day.

So to all who says that Lennox Linton does not deserve an audience and debate with the PM have robbed themselves of being enlightened. I would even go as far in saying that the PM has indeed robbed himself of an opportunity to conquer all of the 21 seats. What he has done in no uncertain term is put doubt in most voters mind as to his ability to take on Lennox Linton. He has shown hi true colours and has revealed himself as a complete coward.

How can anyone vote for someone who denies its people information which enlightens the public. I say, He knows the end is near and he is now clutching at straws and this is simply a case of a very coward act. He would have probably been better off accepting the debate from Lennox Linton.

PM, I really do think you need to fly Obamas Campaign management advisors and team in order for you to get out of this one. You are like the captain of the Titanic, you have just hit the Iceberg and you are sinking fast Sir. What are you going to do.

We all know the story of the Titanic, so things aren’t looking too great for you. You are on the wrong side of Dominican History, End Of

Mr. Skerritt, you have been in power for 14 years and still you do not have anything of substance that you have done to debate about? How can Dominicans still continue to support your administration? If Dominicans say they love Da then they will give another person a chance to turn things around. This DLP has failed to make any significant improvement in the life of the common man. And this is evident bu the lack of commitment of the part of Skerro to debate the issues that are affecting us.

skerritt u know lennox will make u look stupid,u simply afraid.but is not lennox to be afraid of,u must pray that workers doh win at the polls,because if we win the court is what you have to be afraid of.

Dear Mr. Skerrit, If you are afraid to debate with your local novice challenger How can we trust you to represent the interests of Dominica on the world stage where you have to think on your own two feet? Not with another speech from Hartley Henry I hope.

This Skerrit is just using scare tactics. He obviously has not debating skills or is versed in the Queen’s English. Fear has over taken this PM. He is using reverse psychology on Dominicans and indeed he is afraid of the UWP. He might not be able to take in so much pressure from the debate therefore he is running. The PM is coming out and bragging as if he is one of the best at debating. The PM and his government just dont have what it takes to match up therefore they are all running. Pooooooor Skerritt, One day all the power will leave ya or you will have to leave power. Nothing last forever. You all turned the nation station into Labour station and did a mess with Dominica. Mr Skerrit, wish i could tell you face to face that you and your government deserve a Big Failure mark for the 15yrs in power. Fail Fail Fail Fail Fail………. Just a group of cowards who got lots of cake for free therefore they eating left right and center………………. One thing, You all will go before the lord and leave everything behind….the simple 400 thousand dollars house and so forth if you all know what i mean……. Come and debate and tell the people how come you guys are so so so so well offff and Domincans sucking salt all day long. Tell dem what you guys are doing that they are not doing………………………………….. And for the record: Never have been impressed by you all and never ever willllllllllllllllllllllllllll….

Personally, I would not have a debate with Linton. I would be suspicious of his motives. I stay far away from people as he with his disposition and under political circumstances. Once I know what certain people are like, I would not even enter into a conversation with them and would avoid them. It is not fear of debating/communicating or associating. It is for the sake of peace, peace in the land and peace of mind. Linton is a disagreeable person. Would he address the concerns of Dominicans and in what manner? I do not think his aim was to do so. I also do not think his wish for having a debate with the PM is genuine. You UWP’ers, you have projected that whatever the PM states, displeases you. Why should the PM waste his God-given precious time to debate with one as Linton and to satisfy him and you? Do people debate with their enemies? I visualize that this debate would also produce discord. I wish that some of you opponents would utilize your common sense if you have any. Dominicans, weigh out what the PM has done during his tenure in office. Note what changes have been effected in Dominica. Note the progress of Dominica and what it was prior to when he became Prime Minister. This is what you must view and consider. Know what you have. Think of what you will gain in the future. In other words, use your head and not your emotions when voting. Vote wisely. This is my advice to you.

The only way we can prove what you are saying is by hearing directly from both of you in a debate, so why wouldn;t you Mr. PM allow us the oportunuty to decide for our self. why shoud we take your word for it?

skerrit, you represent a lazy man’s budget, whereas Mr Linton represents a ‘forward we go’ budget. You skerrit, not afraid to talk crap but when it comes to a sensible debate you shy away. skrit, you can sleep with the devil in the night and take in all his garbage but in the day you know too well, that is garbage that comes out. In that case a pit latrine would serve your purpose.

Mr prime minister you are a coward… You can come up with all the excuse in the world..the facts remain you tremble at the thought of debating Lennox and u don’t want go world to see a novice taking u to the cleaners… U challenged Linton in the ring he accepted now u so scared u can’t even debate the man…Linton called ur bluff and has exposed u for the coward u are

Roosevelt, you realise you have have just admitted defeat by reason of “no contest”? You want our adulation as the champion fighter without going into the ring to beat your opponent fair and square. Honestly Roosevelt, I was happy to have you in 2005 but now I’m embarrassed with a champion like you. I honestly think you are scared of your own people, or perhaps have a distaste for them. We are such a small country but most of the time you are not here and when you are I do not see you walking amongst us unless it is with a heavily armed guard. What is that for Roosevelt? Rosie never do that, Pierro never do that. They would engage with the common man without hindrance or fear. Sorry but I think you have a real problem and that is not healthy for our country brother.

JoJo why should a well respected prime minister like PM Skerrit sit and debate with a man who has no place in Dominica parliament , who called all the ministers of government rapist, who said Dominican women are prostitutes and spelled it out to make sure they understood, who was caught red handed stealing another man’s ideas as if it were his plans for his country???? “give me a break ” the man is not even aquented with speaking the truth and he talking about debate! debate my foot.

I agree with the prime minister 100%. He is prime minister because he faced the people on several occassions and the people voted for him. When Linton is able to win his seat, and become a politician he will be regarded as that. For now he is just a journalist that has lost his way. Is Linton a politician or a journalist?

Linton is not an elected member of parliament so why should the Prime Minister give him the time of day? This guy is very aggressive so Skerrit would need security. How can a man with such a background can be a Prime Minister material is beyond me

you speaking about being aggressive. If you did not know your pm, skerrit, is very short-tempered . Also, I observe you are young because you should know leaders of opposition , new or experienced , debate the leader of the party in government. ask your elders probably they will educate you . If you are an adult well I am sorry for you

and please you don’t have to agree with everything skerrit says or do.

my friend you can see well this person is talking just to get free things that’s one of our DOM-IN-CANS LOL LOL LOL there was freedom party and the lady use to go market all by her self with a next lady friend now see what we come to in our sweet Dominica but there time come MR pm call it for us to get the working going

Begger I know you a doing just that for your daily bread from the Red Clinic but you should have some common sense because the PM like to match Dominica next to the USA President who is been interview by Reporters and Journalist all the time Pm is sleeping and so a you ;

You can beat up yourselves blues all that you want on DNO but that’s how it;’s gonna be. You biased fools never asked Lennox to go to parliament and prove himself in debates on national issues there. Instead, when he had the opportunity he sent Monelle. Now you are clamoring for a mapuis match with Skerrit?? Don’t you know of the saying that EMPTY BARRELS make the most noise??? The DLP will continue to do what it has to to move the country and no amount of insults and nonsense written on DNO can stop that, neither can it prevent another victory for Skerrit and the DLP at the poles. You guys better put it in your pipes and smoke it before you go mad!!!!!

Why should Dominicans feel rejected in this democracy ; when you think of the legacy of the working class people who came a long long way through much struggles and hardship from way back when and the pioneers who dedicated themselves to take the mantle of leadership moving forward , you tend to wonder , where have all those efforts gone – the pursue of political independence and the realization of it brought great joy to many hearts , across party lines – you mean the people should be subjected to this now ,in 2014 ? . This brushing off from taking any part in a political debate should never have crossed his mind , much less made known . Doesn’t the Pm know , that such debates are benefits in a true democratic system ?

Jolly this is tipical uwp you all can’t accept defeat and anyone who doesn’t agree with your messed up party are described as stupid ppl , the church, the court the ,the ccj, the judicial system just name it and they stupid, i’m afraid that you all will soon attack the almighty , o lord help this country.

DA/roots debate with who? as far as I am concern Lenox is an ordinary man who has no place in parliament what debate? stupes , Mr PM as head of the DLP continue the debate with the issues of this country as you have been doing and you in for sure for another five years, no debate with lang maypwe you have better things to do with your time Labour ka twavai.

Why should PM Skerrit stand in public, be polite, shake hands with the person who has referred to him as a rapist? There is absolute bad blood between the two individuals and I am one who believes that I cannot be friendly and nice with somebody who does not want to be my friend, who has sort at every turn to paint me a devil; called me a thief and for 10 years running now and more recently referred to me as a rapist. What good is political is in there for me.

WE need a more gentler political climate. A climate which engenders and tolerates differing views, but one in which we remain civil with each other, even when we disagree bitterly on Dominica’s development path. When we would have arrived at that point in our civilization, then we can blame PM Skerrit for refusing to debate. By the way the best debator does not necessarily possess the wherewithal to develop a poor country like ours. Secondly, if we want our leaders to debate, we must ALL strive to create the enabling environment. As it stands today, the environment for a debate where one side can disagree with each other and still respect each other as individuals and positions that each hold is non-existent. So people let us not sound like there was going to be a debate somehow. Few of us (moralists, academics, men and women of the cloth (included) can point to any efforts on our part to foster the enabling environment that would engender such a debate.

If we are to borrow a leaf from the United States is that. There is a duly established Commission on Presidential debates. That body of people is trusted, professional, very well equip and work hard to be non-partisan. Can we say that about our society? Those who want the debate are supporters of the UWP who believe that because their leader is articulate he will score points on PM Skerrit who has a speech deficiency – he stutters. Those who do not want the debate are supporters of the DLP and PM Skerrit. They too believe that Mr. Linton by dint of his speaking abilities (now we know he is borrowing a “few lines” from materials already published) will make Pm Skerrit look small because of PM Skerrit’s speech defect. But is that all there is to a debate between our political leaders?

People like you are the reason Dominica is in the state it is in economically and socially. Had you and all the others of similar persuasion, called out skerritt to account from day one. Had you asked him to be transparent from the day the first revelation of his bad behaviour was revealed he would not have continued to disrespect Dominicans and all the further incidences of misbehaviour would not have occurred.

After hearing that the PM has absolutely no interest in debating issues of national importance my family and I have absolutely NO INEREST in casting a vote for ANY party under Roosevelt Skerrit’s leadership!

Total and utter disrespect for the people of The Commonwealth of Dominica!

This Skerrit led administration has brought SHAME on what was once a people focused party Labour Party! Rosie Douglas ( may the Lord rest his soul) must be turning in his grave!

Note how you turned the PM’s word around and project that you misconstrue them. to suit your mentality. I do think people as you have no respect for the PM. It commenced with you. He did not bring shame at all. It is because of Linton’s attitude that he decided not to debate with him. It has nothing to do with having no interest and disrespect for nationals. You ignore Linton’s attitude as if he is faultless and blameless in your sight. If you have common sense you will understand why the PM refused to debate with him. Linton’s wish to have a debate with the PM is not one of integrity and respect. He is trying to stir up trouble.

Jayson well I have news for you on the contreary me and my family are collecting votes for the DLP so that’s cool we can do well without your votes, debate what” he want debate for him to knock out PM like the boy in school who ended up dead for some soft drink , but so many other ordinary men on the street why Lenox because he violent na? why not Spags or the deputy they are honourable men Lenox is not a member of parliament for crying out loud.

Parry, I would inform the Prime Minister that the sarcasm that he is being thrown at Mr. Lennox Linton does not prove a thing. Debates between political leaders just before general elections is world wide. I would also remind the Prime Minister that debates take place in parliament at least six times year, therefore, what is the fear of sitting around the table with a man who you claim is uneducated. Common, Mr. Prime Minister, show how wise or how great thou art.

Didn’t someone just said that he is the wisest leader? Well, well, well. What an EMBARRASSMENT. Never heard such nonsense coming from a leader. You are WEAK to the hundreth degree. Clearly, you are not helping yourself. Just call the elections. We have heard enough. Change is a must.

What would be the debate about really? The man has spend so many times on radio laying down what are their plans. What are their opposition. Why would they be a better choice for Dominica. When last did Dominica had a two leaders debate? When was it done in Dominica history? Dominican just want to follow all what is foreign. America have debate all you want debate. Get all you own style of politics. Monell want a debate. Linton want a debate. A bunch of fancy talk on behalf of the UWP. What has this members of team Dominica done for their country? Suddenly they wake up and they ready to lead. In all the years that Linton has been a journalist. What has he done through his media network and connection outside Dominica to bring funds and development to Dominica. Does he have a scholarship program under his name. SMFH with this stupid comments on DNO. Lennox and team Dominica has put a team together over a year now. They have traveled the world and ask for donations. How many of this donations have they shared with the Dominican electorate? What difference has any of this men and women of that team done in the past year to change a single life in Dominica. Nelson Mandela was one of the greatest leaders. Before he got into politics he had done such to change the life of his people. You do not have to be in power to change lives and serve your country. Team Dominica has lawyers, Ex IMF executives , Journalist , businessman and so on…… this people hasn’t done any charitable donations or contribution to the country that they claim they love so much. People doesn’t forget when they house was licking who give them couple material to repair it. People do have time listen to fancy talk and members in places like Dominica. Anyway 90% of Dominican know who they are voting for.

U must be kidding me… In the 2000 general election it was held between Edison Rosie and Charles saverin.. Go do some research and don’t make yourself a fool…u labour supporters just run your mouths too much

If a debate took place it would not be fruitful. Linton does not have good intentions. The debate would be one of vindictiveness and throwing words, generating from Linton. Having read about Linton and his attitude, I would not endorse a debate. Linton has a Court appearance for maligning the name of the PM and his Cabinet. For what Linton stated, he should have been fired as leader of UWP. The PM reserves the right to refuse to debate with him.

Well Skerrit if Lennox is so unread, lazy, a fraud etc, why not use youur superior intellect to humiliate him in a public debate and expose him for who he is? I think that instead u are exposing yourself as a coward, a fraud, and a little boy who cannot face a bold face adult Lennox.

Why should he stoop to Linton’s wishes knowing what he is up to? That debate would not be beneficial for the country. For one, it would only produce lack of peace. Dominicans can do without that type of debate.

Once again the Prime Manipulator has forgotten his duty to the electorate. He sees this challenge to debate Linton as a personal choice, not the duty of a responsible candidate in the 21st century.

It doesn’t matter who the opposition selects as their leader, your role as a candidate is to present your ideas and challenge theirs. If you can’t present and defend what you and your supporters describe as the best 15 years in Dominica’s history, well, your time is up!

Ok Skerrit, now we understand why you will not debate Lennox Linton. According to you it is because: “has not read a serious book about Dominica.” “He has not taken time to read the IMF reports or the World Bank reports, the ECCB reports.” Ok Mr. Skerrit, I know someone from Team Dominica who has done all of the above and even worked with IMF to help save the economy of other countries. I am referring to Dr. Thomson Fountaine. Are you ready to debate him? When? Please let us know so we could arrange to have the likes of tony, camalla, Curtis, and Lawrence as moderators just to ensure you have a team you are very comfortable with.

“He has not taken time to read the IMF reports or the World Bank reports, the ECCB reports,” Skerrit said. “He has not engaged in himself in any serious, honest discussion. I don’t see myself engaging in discussion with Lennox Linton about Dominica

That sounds lie a good description of Thompson Fontaine. Not long ago when he was asked to provide the evidence. What did he say – he himself said he gave an anecdote. meaning he gave a story. No serious hard facts one can depend on. So where are the books that he has read?

The prime minister cannot answer any questions on those very same books he talk about… Why is it when ever he has a press conference it’s only kairi,DBS,and his that gets to ask him baby questions..he’s not as verse as he wants us to believe that’s why he will never invite Matt to his press conferences.. He’s afraid of the hard questions…cutis Matthew needs to grow balls and question skerrit the way he did fontaine

What a poor excuse. Mr. PM you never debated Mr. Edison James. You never debated Mr. Ron Green. Now be honest you know you are not articulate and you only feel safe in an environment where they ask you baby questions or prepared questions like last night. Please tell the nation you have a speech impediment and you are scared like hell. Nothing is wrong with stuttering what we are interested in is your ability to explain to Dominicans your plans and programs for Dominica and how those plans and programs are better than those of Mr. Linton. Mr Skerrit you will regret that you run away from serious discussion of the issues. Remember you will not always be Prime Minister.

Why not debate Mr. Linton (at least once) in order to confidently talk about your governments accomplishments and vision for the next 5 years. I think the people of DA deserve at least one debate allowing each candidate to articulate their vision for the future of our nation and let the voters decide. At this time, both parties are simply slinging mud at each other which accomplishes nothing for the citizens of this nation.

Mr. Skerrit, you getting yourself too close to the Red Zone and you better stop it NOW. When you make statements like this you know you are exposing your ownself my friend because even if we are on the team, we know very well that you are not anywhere close to being as smart as Lennox. You know that, we know that and they know that. You must avoid the temptation of calling Lennox names because the people know better and they know when you call him names you are exposing your nature and character and he himself does not even have to respond to you. A good example is when you referred to him as “Bastard” last week. Lennox did not even have to answer. The people know what a bastard is and they exposed you to the many who did not know you born out of wedlock to the point of you not even knowing who your real dad is. So please take it easy my friend and heed my advise. Sorry I have to hide myself behind this screen to correct you because I know if I try to do so in your face or through a third person I would be victimized by you the rest of my life

Linton has been challenging Skerrit to debate matters of national importance Linton has been challenging Skerrit to debate matters of national importance

“He has not taken time to read the IMF reports or the World Bank reports, the ECCB reports,” Skerrit said. “He has not engaged in himself in any serious, honest discussion. I don’t see myself engaging in discussion with Lennox Linton about Dominica

why should the PM waste his time. Like Skerrit said he Won’t be debating Linton he’s going to be debating someone else. I agree with you PM don’t waste your time. Linton just want to be in things. Stupesss

you are as ashamed as skeritt, anonymous, i hope you dont have children ,If yes ,then they should be ashame of you,you are one of skeritts foolish desciples ,i wonder how your children doing at school?

Waste his time you are saying? You must have short term memory problems. Only a week ago the same Roosevelt Skerrit was going into labour pains debating Lennox Linton, with everybody who wanted to listen except engaging the man himself. Medard Coward!

A coward always speak in the presence of a crowd, while a person with courage let his work do the talking. I wonder who this cap fits? Hold your horses now, red between the lines first. Is the PM saying that he rather walk away from a debate because we as Dominicans are not at that level to discern facts from fictions and he is not comfortable standing in a setting with an opposition to do it. Well, well what cowards, because the parliament moderator aka the speaker is really a template of the setting yet, there has been no fights, therefore the only thing different is who will debate in one case (Linton vs PM) and that is too much. Wow!!!! Even animals like cats stand up to pit bulls neglecting the savagery and share power of the dog and two human beings cannot stand in a room to debate things that are important to Dominicans. I am a very competitive person and yet am not a sore loser and do not expect to win every battle. Mr. Skerrit the people who are advising you against a debate do not love you, instead they are happy that you are making mistake after mistake. I was once told your friends are the ones who will stand with you in time of need and right now you have conveniently taken care of the needs of many people around you and may not be totally aware of who are your friends. Trust me God and your instincts are your best friends, this country have very few friends. Make no mistake about it. In fact you may even sway voters to your party after the debate, but to feel that comfortable is to set yourself up for a big disappointment. Rethink this decision or else you will regret it. Note: when you send us to educate ourselves it was to remove this dogmatic philosophy of my mother and father was Labour, Freedom etc so I voting the party of my parents. In short the populace are more educated and we may be wined and dinned by you and when you look for our support it will be no where to be found. The writing is on the wall like Nebuchadnezzar.

“and what communion hath light with darkness?”- 2 Cor.6;:4. It should have been the order way around. Mr. Linton should have been the one to say he not going to share a stage with skerrit because skerrit represents darkness. The man is so dishonest and yet he has the guts to say he cannot share stage with Lennox. stupes. He will not go on stage with Lennox or no one that doesn’t support his nonsense because he scared of being exposed since light exposes darkness just as truth exposes lies.

You and your cronies are DAMAGING Dominica (running away investors) with the emphasis placed on PLAGIARISM and other nonsense during this time / election season.

PLAGIARISM is just not politics! It’s not the practice and theory of influencing people on a local, regional, international, civic or individual level. It doesn’t refer to achieving and exercising positions of governance. Furthermore, it isn’t the study or practice of the distribution of power and resources within DOMINICA, as well as the interrelationship(s) between communities. Surely, it isn’t the LABOUR PARTY method employed in politics, which promotes their political views among Dominicans, negotiation with other political subjects, making laws, and exercising force, including warfare against adversaries.

Is PLAGIARISM the Labour Party’s political system built on a framework which defines acceptable political methods within society?

PLAGIARISM is just not economic growth! It is not just the increase in Dominica’s market value of the goods and services produced by the Dominican economy overtime. It is just not a measurement as the per cent rate of increase in real gross domestic product or real GDP. It is just not the growth of the ratio of GDP to population (GDP per capita), also called per capita income. It is just not an increase of growth caused by more efficient use of inputs, also called intensive growth. It is just not GDP growth caused only by increases in inputs such as capital, population or territory, also called intensive growth.

It is just not growth calculated in real term – i.e. inflation-adjustment terms – to eliminate the distorting effect of inflation on the price of goods produced. It is just not measurement of economic growth using national income accounting. It is just not economics “economic growth” or “economic growth theory” as it relates to growth of potential output – i.e. production at full employment. It is just not.

SKerritt is afraid like nobody’s business. Fear envelopes his entire mind and body.

Imagine in 2014, a leader of a country, spews boldly in our face and for the whole world to hear, that he will never debate Linton? What have we been subjected to in this Nature Isle, nuh?

This country so beautiful, with so many patriotic, intelligent, loving human beings? No debate of development issues, PM?

What kind of people would elect any politician, much less a Leader of a country, who refuses to discuss, debate issues of development? Many Dominicans did just that in 2009.

MWAD had organised a debate between the leaders of both Parties last election. Ron Green took on the challenge. Skerritt said he would debate, then chickened out soon after. What is the man scared of? Dominicans still put the man in Govt ,oui !!!!!!!!!!!

He worried about questions about the Trafalgar land deal, Bin and Fertilizer bobols, Bad Governance, the declining state of the economy, the neglected youth, rising unemployment, refusal to implement or facilitate Electoral Reforms for FREE and Fair Elections, PWC debt, debt to Law University, Debt to Venezuela, etc. etc., etc., too many questions to answer.

PM fraid. We have never witness a PM so scared of a debate or meeting face-to-face with an opposition Leader.

Wasn’t Skerritt an English teacher at College? So debates wasn’t on the curriculum? He never encouraged students to discuss and debate issues as an English teacher?

YesI Skerro You are a real toidi you just proving what we’ve been saying all along which is you afraid of Lennox the great. The prime minister has essentially dumped the idea saying he is not prepared to go face to face with Linton since Linton “has not read a serious book about Dominica.”“He has not taken time to read the IMF reports or the World Bank reports, the ECCB reports,” Skerrit said. “He has not engaged in himself in any serious, honest discussion.“any ability to articulate his own words..” If this is true Mr. PM come decalay the poor boy on live Tv nah. And as for you Dominican Uk if you are really in the UK use the time to educate yourself you sound real foolish. Have you heard team Dominica engaging in maypwee? Are you that d.a.f.f that you are mistaking the DLP with the UWP? Stupessssssss

I am a Labor party supporter living in the US and I`m very disturbed and disappointed by my PM whom I love very much finding every excuse in the books why he should not debate Lenox Linton. I honestly feel that there is a certain level of fear and I`m sure that other labor party supporters feel the same way. My dear PM you need to give us a much better reason why you have decided against the debate. I think that you should have the debate and prove to us that Lenox Linton is really not fit to lead the Island.

OK…Let’s put it this way. According to you all UWPites, Skerrit doesn’t have the capacity to debate Lennox…Which of course is just BS. Well it goes the other way too; Lennox Linton does not have the capacity to RUN the country(Dominica).Reason;This guy has already admitted that he is a NOVICE.

Hope you all UWPites hear now! No debate,period. The PM has given his reasons which sound quite genuine.SO….. You all can huff and puff…write all sorts of comments,Laborites say no debate.Now debate among you all self.

Mr.PM u ain’t honest with us it fear to say you’re a corrupt leader,Mr.Linton given u the opportunity to debate him face to face so that the Dominican people will see which of u needed to be trusted and you refused, only communist country doesn’t debate

YES I! If he is a wise PM as he was portrayed, you just have shown how unwise you are. If I were you would take that perfect opportunity to debate Lennox because he is dunce, as you have implied, and you are wiser, therefore would expose Lennox dunceness via the debate. Boi! Look stupidity in DOMINICA.

I thought we had an independence message asking for unity and dialogue. Unity starts with communication, putting aside prejudices and having honest engagement. So in 2014 the man running the country is afraid to debate. The same man challenged Ron Green and then run and hide. Anyone listening to Lennox Linton will conclude that he is well read. As for Skerrit I can’t say.

If you say that Lennox Linton is not well informed on the IMF, World Bank and the ECCB report it would seems that your are. Why don’t you crush him in a debate let the people (the electorates) see for theirselves ?

Mr. Prime Minister, Instead of hiding behind mere words with your Psychology 101 tricks come out and let raise the bar of Dominica politics. Stand up as a leader of a developing nation and prove to us that you are worth being the leader you are and not Lennox.

Stop running aways from a debate like its a fight someone challenged you to

This prime minister is looking sillier and sillier as the days go by leading up to the general elections. In some ways he is coming across as pathetic and silly leader who now seems to be wearing no clothes. So I am not surprised that he is afraid to debate which may expose his nakedness. And I don’t blame. He has calculated that it is better to remain silent rather than face a debate and erase any doubt about his lack of knowledge. It is more convenient for Mr. Skerrit to take swipes at his opponent from a safe distance . it’s entirely a different matter to meet Mr. Linton face to face to debate policy issues including charges of corruption. If Skerrit is comfortable on his feet, he would come forward. His excuses simply boils down to the fact that he is afraid to look foolish even if he behaves exactly in this fashion.

I have NEVER heard such “chupidness” from a sitting PM in Dominica!!What a laughable statement! If I were in your place I would hasten to put L L in his “place” as a novice, uneducated and bastard. But as my granny would tell us daily: you ever see a bird eating guava in mango season? HOTEP!

Skerrit according to you, Linton is plagiarizers, he does not have a degree, you held a mass meeting to expose all his so called faults and you are mortally scared of engaging in a national debate with a man who is so educationally “depraved”. Come on Skerrit, the JOKE is on you, you’re total waste of time !!!

Nothing would have been better than to see both leaders engaged in a political debate . In this age of information , I don’t see any reason whatsoever that should hinder such a worthy occasion for all . A well organized debate is designed to fulfill at least three main purposes .. Firstly and notably … It will be used as a measuring rod by all of Dominica’s nationals and citizens alike , especially the electorate , even the leaders themselves as beneficial to evaluate a number of things , including their presentation , attitude , or any notable hindrance to their progress on the political platform . Secondly . It will definitely strengthen bonds with supporters . Thirdly .. it will be a wonderful opportunity to challenge and persuade undecided voters . Mr Prime Minister , why not

Stop beating about the bush…..I really do not want to be on a search and rescue mission with you —-you just cannot make up your mind…..one minute you talk sense….next minute you jump over the precipice…… Please make up your mind what you stand for nuh…… say something to convince that you are intuned with the subject matter. Not only this one….

The prime minister should confirm what he said about Lennox Linton not having “any ability to articulate his own words…” by public debate and public debate only. Let us, the Dominican public and the rest of the world, decide for ourselves. Democratic countries demand these political debates……..

THe fact is, skerrit does not have the capacity to debate Lennox. Therefore he will come up with nonsense about plagiarism. . Who is the most famous plagiarzer. ROOSEVELT SKERRIT..Dominican open your eye vote this man out….

Why has the PM not agree to Debate Mr Linton? The reasons advanced seem highly manufactured and I am left with no doubt that the PM’s infantile excuse is no more than an alternative to saying that he is afraid of being embarrassed.

Mr PM, you claim that Mr Linton has not read a meaningful book about Dominica as the reason why you will not debate Mr Linton!!! Others would see it as an ideal opportunity for you to prove to the Dominican people that Mr Linton is a ‘bastard’ ignorant and Lazy man who is unfit to lead the country. You could quote from these books on Dominica that one would have to assume that you read and Mr Linton has not read. You would be allowed to show Dominicans that Mr Linton’s ideas have been plagiarised and did not originate from him. In fact based on your excuse, you would have every advantage in such a debate, so why not Mr PM. Please stop insulting us as you have been trying to do repeatedly, recently you came with the excuse that even if you were caught repeating another man’s speech, it is protocol and not plagiarism, yet you have failed to find any other similar examples of protocol, where leaders from other countries simply repeat verbatim speeches from other leaders and call it protocol; Now you are using some simplistic, puerile, inane and infantile excuses as to why you will not debate Mr Linton. Mr Pm is the real reason FEAR!!! You are simply afraid, ain’t it MR PM!!! A University Grad afraid of a high school drop-out!!!!! Weh papa, Mi Debah!!!!

Is this man serious about our development or just seeking excuses to hide away from exposing his incompetence and fear of losing to Linton in a debate? Come on this is not how you feel about Linton or how he feels about you. This is about us wanting to hear the plans and programs of both leaders debated so that we cam make the right choice. To deny us that is just another way of saying “Got to hell is none of your damn business” as he has said before in other matters. The people should rise and demand that we want a debate or no vote for you Skerrit.

Well Dominica really in the dumpsters of history when the leader of the country saying no to debates tells where we are as a nation, Eugenia debated, Edison debated, Rosie debated, mister making Dominica a communists state with no freedom and rights and those stupid reds cheering for him. Scotland just had a referendum, Dominicans paying dem fellas alot of taxes for crappy representation, if everyone stopped paying taxes you will see how quickly the Govt will collapse.

I totally agree with the PM. Why should he stand in line with an ….taking out mapwee he is a man of honour and need to honour his people. I truly believe that he has got better things to do even Linton should have better things to do, like planning how to run things in Marigot and Wesley and all UWP areas or the non speaking creole not in the rest of Dominica. Let him go and shake his bag where he sell his coal according to Chubby.

I support you 100%. There are more important things to do than debate Lennox, whom I must admit is a great speaker, but that’s all there is to him. If he can’t admit to the plagiarism claim, then why debate?

So the Prime Minister of the country cannot debate a man who he believe is intellectually inferior? And you agree with that? Can you send me the information about your credit card like the number, date of expiration, CIV and address. I want to make sure my number in sync. Yr Prime Minister that ask me so it must be true. Oh yah. I need your UK passport too and yr email accounts while you at it.

@ Really, i was feeling a little down after a hard work week and came across your post while glancing at the comments to this article. I had such a good laugh after reading your post; thanks for such an adequate yet humorous response to a partisan commenter. Thanks. Lol. Lol. Best I’ve read all week.

Garson Skerro one day you will STOP ducking eh. When it comes to ducking Mohammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard have nothing on you. I christen you The Senior Ducker!

If all what you saying is true then debate Linton and daycarlay him in the process . Show him who is man! He has not read a serious book about Dca, his speeches are not his own, he is a bastard, he is a leech and plagiarizer so go on stage and vulteezhay him for all to see.

You so afraid of Linton that you will NOT debate him because Tony will not be there for you to hide under his skirt like a little child running from a darkie on carnival Monday.. lol. Hence my friend, another reason why CHANGE IS A MUST!

Smh. I’m not trying to get in the gutter. But that is a punk move by the. Pm. If everything he is saying is true it should be easy for him to embarrass lenox In a debate and prove to the country that he is the best man for the job

Are the Dominican people going to accept this as a reason to not have a public debate between political adversaries? Moreover, I thought that a debate would be a decision to be taken by the Dominican people!

There use to be a calypso by Mighty Chalk Dust, “I fraid karl,” Pat AAron’s next calypso should be, “I fraid Lennox.” Recently, the West Indies Cricket Board wanted to celebrate their 500th test cricket match in stile, therefore, they played Bangladesh which is a weaker cricket then them. What better way to put Mr. Linton out of his political misery, then to have him around a table and show his lack of experience as a politician and lack of leadership qualities. You can go to the Parliament and talk till kingdom come, but a high school drop out from Marigot have you running scared, what a disaster.

lolo…lolo…lol fear, fear, laparese…. PM everyone in Dominica even your labor party diehards knows that you lack the capacity and the political competence to debate the issues.. you cant even have an open press conference because you lack the ability to answer pressing questions.. you ran from the six form college debate… you can only debate maypwee.. unlike Rosie who debated and Pierro who would debate you just a political actor, who lies an stammers continuously.. You all are so scared of Team Dominica.. change is a must not an option

shahhhahhahhaha wayyyyy lol if u sayimg the man have no idea nothing debate the man lol hah boi look marge’ wi a gov of a country afraid of the opposition leader lol .man shame on u skerit its a shame. he know he kia talk so he know is embarass he going to embarass hiself so he making all kia lame lies .man comout there eh . call the election!!!!

ha ha ha ha then linton is weak, uneducated,and have not read a serous book on Dominica all the reasons you should mash hime up in a debate, what you afraid of? lol any 5 year old – child can see through your BS Prime Minister who think you fooling.

Mr.Skerrit everytime you choose to hide away from a debate you are proving more and more to Dominica that you are not capable of running this country. This is your opportunity to show that Lennox is everything you claim to be and you are shying away from him. You could dedicate a meeting in lagon to Linton but you wont try to debate and embarrass him. something is fishy about this. I don’t know Linton but from the looks of it he seems more capable than you are. you are afraid to debate an uneducated novice. come on Skerrit stop pretending. change is a must not an option. you are just putting the nails in your coffin.

What is your rational for not debating? Come on Roosevelt these are not genuine reasons you are a coward. You branded the man as degree less, unable to generate his own ideas and so many other things and you are shaking in your shoes to debate an empty man? roosevelt every time you speak you just make your self more transparent. Your joker!

“Like the Republicans who were convinced the 2012 opinion polls were “skewed” in favor of Obama, great swaths of Scottish independence campaigners were certain they were headed for victory no matter what the pollsters had said.” Enjoy your moment Mr. Prime Minister…..

The prime minister said Linton has not demonstrated “any ability to articulate his own words..”

Boy Mr. PM you have a gutts eh pal. to even utter such words, who does write your speech for you. The more they expose you the more you talk nonsense. Just say you afraid of Linton and we will all agree. Linton articulates much better than you. he will put you in the shade, you know that.

If you say that Lennox Linton is not well informed on the IMF, World Bank and the ECCB report it would seems that your are. Why don’t you crush him in a debate let the people (the electorates) see for theirselves ?

Mr. Prime Minister, Instead of hiding behind mere words with your Psychology 101 tricks come out and let raise the bar of Dominica politics. Stand up as a leader of a developing nation and prove to us that you are worth being the leader you are and not Lennox.

Stop running aways from a debate like its a fight someone challenged you to.

SKERRIT ..are you serious????boi is not killing people alone that is MURDER..honestly i believe something is wrong MENTALLY..with this prime minister..the reason why you dont want to debate lennox is because you scared of him face to face on any platform…..you accuse him of being lazy yet thats what you turning this country into..a country of BEGGARS AND LAZY PEOPLE..giving out handouts to strong able bodied individuals…..skerrit are you for real??? how many speech have you written…you all about like a FOU-FOU…WONDER HOW YOU SLEEP AT NIGHTS…yes i..smh

What? If I were you Mr. PM – I would really debate this “lazy fellah” as you put it. This will be your moment truth. Give us W DOMINICANS the proof of what you’ve been saying about Linton, pleas give us the priviledge to come to our own conclusion. Trust us – we are educated enough! SO I say – let’s debate!!!!!!!!

If you win again your friends and foes alike will have a hard time respecting you without a debate. Civilized and democratic countries demand such debates. You are out of step all the way and unfortunately the people around you will abandon you high and dry when if you are defeated at the polls. Can you pull out that election dated from your back pocket and tell us?

lolololol. ok Skerro, lets give you the benefit and agree to what you are saying about lennox linton. you are maybe right. lets see you embarrass him in a debate. you know you have the edge. give the people of dominica what they ask for. thats what we want to see.

Out of all what was said last night that is all you all heard? you all heard nothing about the state the country was in when they took over, the PM was right Linton is not worth to stand on the same stage as the PM. Linton did not take the time to understand and to educate himself on the interworking’s of government, because all the blunders he made so far would not have happened. Even the news conference his team held this week was ill managed, when asked as to show where you can go to find the data they speak of they jumped on the reporter. Please, Linton been debating for years now, a debate will prove what that you are more incompetent than we thought?

That’s just bull.. afraid you afraid of linton.. you saying the man cannot articulate his ideas and knows nothing about Dominica cause he has not read any world bank or IMF report.. Is now you should be willing to debate him and make him look like he knows nothing.. As the leader of the opposition and you leader of the government so close to an upcoming election I would think you would jump to the chance to shut linton up…

Come on DNO stop playing politics. I listened to the PM last night and I am left to wonder why this caption today when the PM highlighted so many plans for the future development of Dominica. Why is it that DNO always looks for the negative every time the PM speaks. Stop this Mehn. Dominica is ours to build and together we must take Dominica to the next level…

Well come out and debate the plans with your opponent and show you have better plans so those who listen to different radio stations will hear it all on one station or on all since all will broadcast it live

I understand the Prime Minister’s position, but it is a sad development for our democracy. But that is the sum total of what our politics has been lowered too. Mr. Linton for his part has for years been on the defensive ridiculing, castigating and generally maligning every action, word or deed of the PM. Based on what Linton has said or done behind the microphones, the PM cannot do anything right. In fact the PM is the “most corrupt” person under the sun. So where is he basis for a debate?

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